"If You Know These Things, Happy You Are if You Do Them " - SPIRITUAL FOOD-MORE THAN JUST INFORMATION

We receive much good counsel and training through the Bible, our Christian publications, our websites, JW Broadcasting, and our meetings and assemblies   But according to Jesus' words found at John 4:34, spiritual food involves more than just taking in knowledge.  What more is involved?  Jesus said:  "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work." 

To Jesus, spiritual food included acting on God's direction.  In what sense is this like food?   Just as our bodies are contented and nourished when we eat a good meal, our hearts are strengthened and our faith is nourished for everlasting life when we participate in doing God's will. How many times have you gone to a meeting for field service not feeling your best-only to finish preaching that day refreshed and invigorated>

Putting divine instruction into practice is essentially what wisdom means.  (Psalm 107:43)  The reward for wisdom worth the effort.  "Nothing you desire can compare to it. . . . It is a tree of life to those who take hold of it, and those who keep firm hold of it will be called happy." (Proverbs 3:13-18) Jesus said:  "If you know these things, happy you are if you do them. (John 13:17)  The disciples' happiness would last if they kept doing what Jesus instructed them to do.  They did not embrace his teachings and example simply as an immediate response on that one occasion. It became their way of life.

Endurance in applying what we know to be true is just as important today.  To illustrate, a mechanic may have tools, materials, and knowledge, but he will not benefit from those assets unless he uses them.   If he has done mechanical work in the past and has gained valuable experience in the process, he must continue to practice what he has learned in order to stay skillful and productive.  Likewise, we might enjoy initial success because we apply what we need in the Bible. However, we will find lasting happiness by living humbly by Jehovah's instruction each day.

Let us consider some different situations in which our humility might be put to the test and see how similar changes were met by faithful ones of old.  Spiritual strength comes from more than just considering the information. So think of how you personally can apply each of these points, and than do it without delay. 

Next time:  "If You Know These Things, Happy You Are if You Do Them" -  VIEW THEM AS EQUALS

From the jw.org publications